Ryan Booher’s RSP Reader’s Team

Who is this bird? Ryan Booher will give you the word as he reveals his RSP Readers Team, which will feature Diamond formation sets and West Coast/Spread Concepts. Photo by Jeffery Beall.

As promised, I’m posting reader-submitted teams for the RSP Writers Project. Ryan Booher has been excited about participating in this project for months now. He has delivered a fascinating roster filled with many players that I haven’t seen on teams submitted thus far. He’ll also be using the Diamond formation in a lot of base sets, which we might see a little bit in the NFL this year. Cool stuff. Stay tuned for Booher’s Q&A.

Next week, reader Ethan Hammerman a news director at WBRU in the New England area will debut his RSP roster. Matt Miller, Jene Bramel, and Alessandro Miglio’s teams are coming soon. Former NFL player and Bleacher Report Writer Ryan Riddle is also working on a team. We’re just getting this project started.

Ryan Booher’s Roster

Offense

Ben Tate will be the man for Ryan Booher’s squad. I bet he’s Skip Bayless and American Meat Industry-approved. Photo by The Britt_2

Quarterback Depth Chart

Starting Position

Role (optional)

Name

Value

Commentary (Why you picked the player: specific skills and talents you like, potential upside, and/or fit within the system)

QB1

Andrew Luck

12.5

Luck is a unique prospect in his mental acumen at the position. He has the touch, accuracy, poise, and proper fundamentals you want in a QB. Our offense is built entirely on mismatches, namely finding and exploiting them. He has the tools for this to be accomplished. On top of all this, he wants to be the best and has no hesitation putting in the work that goes along with that desire.

QB3

T.J. Yates

4

Yates is No.3 on the depth chart only because of the NFL’s rule of 3rd QB having to play entire game if he takes a snap. If Luck were to go down w/ an injury, Yates adequately showed in 2011 he can hold the fort. He is decisive, and has good accuracy. His intelligence will also come in very handy in the QB meeting room.

QB2

Josh Portis

1

Portis has a very impressive skill set for a guy who is a relatively unknown. To help really supplement the running game, I want to be able to have a spread/wildcat package. Portis is a better passer than Darron Thomas, and the two of them will compete to be the trigger man in my added offensive packages. His use in these packages will also help him acclimate to the speed of the NFL, and if pressed into spot duty, he would have some experience with NFL defenses.

Darron Thomas

0.5

Thomas made quite a few impressive stick throws throughout his Oregon career, and the Oregon spread is my “other” offense that I want defenses to have to prepare and account for. His knowledge of the no huddle, and all of its intricacies will only help ensure that he and Portis are as ready as possible when called upon.

Running Back Depth Chart

I’m kind of surprised we haven’t had a Marcel Reece sighting until now. Kudos to Booher for including this most versatile player on his roster. Photo by Jeffery Beall.

Starting Position

Role (optional)

Name

Value

Commentary (Why you picked the player: specific skills and talents you like, potential upside, and fit within the system)

RB1

Ben Tate

5

Given the success of Arian Foster, people readily forget that in the same year Foster was found as an UDFA, the Texans traded up for second-round pick Tate. An unfortunate injury opened the door for Foster, but in 2011 Tate proved his worth when filling in for Foster. He is perfect for my zone blocking scheme. He is a decisive, one-cut runner who has no problem running between the tackles and finishing runs. I am confident that if need be, he can run the ball 20-plus times a game and not lose effectiveness.

RB2

Returner

Kendall Hunter

3.5

Hunter runs very hard for a back of his size, and is very good between the tackles. He can catch the ball out of the backfield, and has experience in a quick-pace no huddle offense. Minimizing his touches, hopefully between 10-12 a game, can help him maintain his explosiveness and guard against him wearing down in spite of his small frame.

RB3

Michael Smith

2.5

Many of the same attributes I like in Hunter, Smith possesses. Lost a little bit behind Robert Turbin, Smith is a powerfully built back who has great short area burst and quickness. I would not hesitate giving him the same 10-12 touches a game as Hunter, and he will come in handy wearing defenses down in the closing minutes of ballgames.

Da’Rel Scott

1

Scott really tore up the 40 at the combine. Scott provides some opportunities in short yardage situations. Given the tempo and pace of our offense, the ability to keep our players fresh is critical. I like his compact frame, and has some abilities in the passing game as well.

Wide Receiver Depth Chart

Reggie Bush a wide receiver? Great idea. I always thought he was a very good player at the position. Situational-emergency RB depth, too. Photo by JSnell

Starting Position

Role (optional)

Name

Value

Commentary (Why you picked the player: specific skills and talents you like, potential upside, and fit within the system)

WR3

Reggie Bush

5.5

The ultimate chess piece. He is my primary slot receiver, though his role will not only game-to-game, but play-by-play. His 88 catches as a rookie showed his fantastic receiving skills, and he is someone defenses must account for at all times. The jet sweep and reverses are going to be beautiful to watch when using him as the motion man. Spread offenses love built-in bubble screens, especially from the bunch look, and Bush is perfect for these as well.

WR1

Greg Little

4

Perfect for my version of the west coast/spread attack, a big receiver who has really good run after the catch skills. Love him on slants curls, outs, for a man his size, does a very good job both creating separation and shielding the defenders. Can also be motioned into the backfield, as his running back skills are evident. Another player that defenses must know where he is at all times.

WR2

Lestar Jean

3.5

I can all but guarantee that if the RSP writers project is done again in 2013, his value will not be $3.5 million. For a guy his size, he has surprising vertical ability, and is a perfect big-bodied west coast possession receiver for the intermediate passing game. Does a good job of shielding defenders from the ball, and has a terrific catch radius.

WR4

Returner

Joe Adams

2.5

A fantastic weapon in an offense full of them. He shined both w/ Ryan Mallett and Tyler Wilson, and his ability in the return game is almost legendary. As he refines his receiving skills, those return skills will be his main usage. Plays much faster than what he timed at the combine, and is very quick and his change of direction skills are fabulous. When in four-receiver sets, a great option from the slot, and on the aforementioned reverses and bubble screens, has the skills to take it to the house if the defense makes any mistakes. For someone of smaller stature, he also can win when placed on the outside, and is pretty crafty in his route running.

WR5

Junior Hemingway

1

His lack of top end speed, and lethargic quarterback play at Michigan worked to his detriment in the NFL Draft. A great fit for the intermediate passing game, does a really good job working back to the quarterback on extended plays. Very strong in both halves, and has a knack for finding soft spots in zone. Only real struggle is his ability to separate, but in an offense with so many other mismatch guys he will be able to make plays on lesser defenders.

WR6

Chad Hall

1

Another versatile player that can play from the backfield, slot, or out wide. Has experience in an option offense, and can fill in on the return game as well. Great work ethic, team player, someone who adds exceptionally to the culture of the locker room.

Fullback and Tight End Depth Chart

I think Casey will be among the more popular choices for this project – and for good reason. Photo by The Brit_2

Starting Position

Role (optional)

Name

Value

Commentary (Why you picked the player: specific skills and talents you like, potential upside, and fit within the system)

FB

Vonta Leach

3

Ask Patrick Willis about Vonta Leach. His ability to create holes and be a factor on inside runs is essential for this offense. Good offenses do as they please, and if the defense wants to key in that Leach is in the game, high percentage chance a run is coming so be it. He does a good job in pass protection as well and really helps the play action game off of it.

TE1

H-Back

James Casey

2.5

A really explosive player for a man his size, and a great hands catcher, rarely letting the ball into his body. Luck is exceptional at using his tight ends, and Casey can put up chunk plays with Luck finding his mismatch. Though not a great blocker, he is willing and can be used inline if need be. For our offense, he will be mostly used as an H-Back, and is comfortable in the backfield, or split wide. Also will be used in the wildcat formation and on gadget plays, as he was very good at Rice at throwing the football on top of all his other skills he has shown.

FB

Marcel Reece

1.5

Maybe my best value player, simply put he is a beast in the passing game. Very difficult for defenses to account for, as he is too fast for most linebackers and too big and strong for defensive backs. He can run the football as well, and will be key in my diamond formation sets on swing and wheel routes.

TE2

H-Back

Charles Clay

0.5

Clay is another relative unknown, but he is very adept at creating mismatches. His 14.6 yards per catch average and three touchdowns in spot duty highlight his good skill set. He will be the second tight end in “12” personnel, and has the blocking ability to also line up in the fullback position as well. Like Reece, he will be a big part of the diamond formation, especially in the red zone.

D.J. Williams

0.5

Got lost in the shuffle his rookie year given the Packers incredibly deep TE group, he was fantastic at Arkansas. Another player who really excels in the H-Back role, and is as outstanding a person as he is a football player. A tough match up for opposing defenses, he really enhances our options when we go with three-tight end sets. Someone who will instantly click with Luck, and provide a valuable security blanket.

Tackle Depth Chart

Starting Position

Role (optional)

Name

Value

Commentary (Why you picked the player: specific skills and talents you like, potential upside, and fit within the system)

LT1

Matt Kalil

8.5

Kalil is a very good athlete, and has the skills needed to be play left tackle in the NFL. His football IQ is exceptional, and his bloodlines speak for themselves. He plays nasty at times, and brings the attitude and toughness you want in your offensive linemen. Given the volume of plays our offense wants to run, he has the stamina and athletic ability to hold up and still be strong in the fourth quarter. A great blindside protector for Andrew Luck.

RT1

Jonathan Martin

5

Andrew Luck has had the benefit of having Jonathan Martin protecting his blindside during his time at Stanford, and although Martin will now be on the right side, their familiarity will be one of the many things that I like with having Martin. Martin is a very good athlete for his size, and his footwork, balance, and ability to bend his hips are all skills that fit perfectly within my offensive scheme. Playing at Stanford obviously tells you of a player’s intelligence level, and Martin more than held his own against Nick Perry and some of the other good pass rushers he faced in college. His athletic ability helps him deal with speed rushers, and has pretty good hands as well.

RT2

Jah Reid

4

Reid was a player who was very good for UCF, and someone who has the versatility needed out of your backup linemen. I would have no hesitation using him at either guard spot, or if he were to need to start at right tackle. I think something not utilized nearly enough is tackle-eligible plays to help in the run game, and this is something that will be in my offense. As was stated with Leach, I have no concern showing my hand to the defense, and Reid has the nastiness I like in the run game.

Guard Depth Chart

Mike Pouncey headlines Booher’s line. Photo by Photo-Gator.

Starting Position

Role (optional)

Name

Value

Commentary (Why you picked the player: specific skills and talents you like, potential upside, and fit within the system)

LG1

Mike Pouncey

6

An absolute weapon in the pull game given his athleticism, he is perfect for my zone blocking scheme. He struggled with snaps in 2011 (see Thanksgiving, Dallas) and I think he is a more natural guard anyway. He held his own very well against some of the better nose tackles in the game, and after the aforementioned Dallas game, Ratliff gave him a ton of credit. Anyone watching Oregon’s read-option scheme understands the importance of the pull game from the interior, and Pouncey demonstrated that skill with the added responsibility of snapping the ball. Also has experience in the no huddle spread during his time at UF.

RG1

Lydon Murtha

1

It is impossible to build a roster without flaws and some projection, and this is a move solely based on projection. His combine numbers show what an impressive athlete he is, and in the 2011 preseason flashed ability as a right tackle. I want his athleticism for the interior game, again being able to use him as a weapon on pulls and traps. He is pretty good with his hands, and has flashed the needed ability to anchor that comes when dealing with inside pressures.

Clint Boling

1

I liked Boling coming out of Georgia, and thought his versatility was one of his strengths, and that is a key attribute for backup linemen. Though a better run blocker than pass blocker, he has the intelligence and weight room dedication that are essential qualities as a leader. A four-year starter at an SEC school, combined with all his other qualities make him a great value for my roster.

RT2

Nate Garner

0.5

Garner is a good backup linemen, as he has the versatility to play anywhere on the line except for center. I have some hesitation with playing him more than a few snaps at left tackle, as Trent Cole absolutely abused him when Jake Long went out with an injury versus the Eagles last year.

Center Depth Chart

Starting Position

Role (optional)

Name

Value

Commentary (Why you picked the player: specific skills and talents you like, potential upside, and fit within the system)

C1

Jason Kelce

2.5

Continuing the theme of athleticism, Kelce is my pick for center. Though he struggled mightily at times in pass protection in 2011, I thought he got better throughout the year. Improved technique and time in the weight room will only go to enhance his overall skill set. He also has experience running a spread no huddle while he was a Bearcat, and has the stamina, athletic ability to not wear down as the game gets into the final minutes.

C2

Ben Jones

1

A heady center who has experience making line calls. Also a better puller than his measurements would probably suggest. Thought he did a pretty good job guarding against interior pressures. Another four-year starter in the SEC who has the leadership qualities to ensure the offensive line as a whole is a tight-knit unit.

Defense and Special Teams

More faith in Ras-I Dowling figuring out the NFL game. Photo by Beth Hart.

Cornerback and Safety Depth Chart

Starting Position

Role (optional)

Name

Value

Commentary (Why you picked the player: specific skills and talents you like, potential upside, and/or fit within the system)

LCB1

Earl Thomas

6

One of my favorite players of the past five years. I feel his skills shine through the most in his man coverage skills, and his interception totals will only increase as his times targeted increases as well. He has shown that his “lack of size” isn’t as big of a deal as old school thinking would lead one to believe. A willing tackler, I focus on his unique cover skills in a league obviously placing a higher emphasis on passing the football.

RCB1

Sean Smith

4.5

You don’t find 6’3, 220-pound guys that run in the 4.4s very often. Smith is a guy who has yet to play to his god-given ability, but his talent/swagger is something I need in my secondary. Against offenses with tight end mismatches, he is a guy I can confidently put on those bigger targets and match size with size.

FS1

Jairus Byrd

5

Much like Thomas, he has great man coverage skills/instincts combined with a knack for the ball. He is someone I am comfortable walking down into the slot and lining up on the slot receiver in today’s NFL. A play maker once he does have the ball in his hands, he has also shown the ability to effectively communicate the secondary calls as well.

SS1

Reshad Jones

1

As is the case w/ Smith, he is someone who has yet to match his talents w/ his production level. He has a knack for the ball, and is better than average in run support. He has the athleticism needed to run w/ the bigger TE’s. An underrated blitzer as well. Against spread heavy offenses, Jones will be part of my 3-3-5 packages as well, as all of the aforementioned qualities are key in the hybrid S/LB role in dealing w/ the myriad of options the offense imposes.

LCB2

Nickel CB

Josh Norman

2

Continuing the trend here, he has athleticism to pair w/ swagger, and ballhawk qualities. Good size for the position, and is better in my press man coverages. Not the best tackler, but my coaching staff will ensure that at the very least, the effort is there.

FS1

Ras-I Dowling

1

Has the ability to play a multitude of positions within the secondary, and his intelligence is a key reason. For a cornerback with his size, he does a very good job turning and running with defenders. Another player who can be used against the bigger receivers and tight ends that are in vogue. I thought he was better than his counterpart who was drafted a year earlier, Chris Cook, and can be really effective in some Cover-2 looks.

RCB2

Nickel CB

Anthony Gaitor

0.5

Very impressive athlete with good ball skills. Has the speed and quickness to play the slot, and despite his size, is a willing tackler in run support. Time in the weight room, and refinement of technique are two key areas that he can improve upon his already enticing physical skills.

SS2

George Iloka

1.5

Iloka has the size I covet for match ups, and the versatility needed for a backup. He has experience both in the back-end, but walked down in man coverage as well. Does a good job when in bump and run, not over-matched by the more explosive tight ends, and has shown the ability to play in zone coverage as well. A key cog in my 3-3-5 defensive looks, and a heady football player.

Chris Cook

0.5

Another big corner who I can use for match-up purposes. His off-field issues are something I think dissipate once he becomes a part of the overall good-guy culture that my locker room is built around. Between him and Gaitor, the competition for playing time will hopefully bring out the best in each.

Linebacker Depth Chart

Sure, he may only be a two-down linebacker to Booher, but this RSP team owner has plans for Rey Maualuga. Photo by Navin Rajagopalan.

Starting Position

Role (optional)

Name

Value

Commentary (Why you picked the player: specific skills and talents you like, potential upside, and fit within the system)

WLB1

K.J. Wright

4

An amazing athlete for his size, and an intelligent player to boot. His wingspan is incredible, and helps in pass coverage. A player that is good against the run, and also does not have to come off the field in passing situations. Shows a knack for rushing the passer as well, so zone blitzes are something he can be an integral part of. A team leader, and someone that sets the tone for the defense.

MLB1

Rey Maualuga

4

Maualuga is a fierce hitter, and very effective when attacking downhill. A really good blitzer, and does a good job making the calls for the defense. Probably only a two-down backer, though in part to my use of different sub packages. Has some natural instincts in regards to the passing game, so not a total liability in passing situations. Rex Ryan once said big hits are sometimes as important as turnovers, and that is the area I am looking for w/ Rey.

SLB1

Demario Davis

3

Of this entire team, this is the player who in 5 years would be the unquestioned leader, the heart and soul of the defense. Another explosive athlete who loves to reek havoc on opposing ball carriers. He has the athleticism needed to cover backs out of the backfield, as well as tight ends down the seam. Very natural when asked to blitz, and uses his hands to his advantage. Never needing extra motivation, he brings not only the weight room dedication, paired w/ required time in film and meeting rooms, but can provide spiritual leadership as well. Can play inside in our 3-4 defensive packages, and is a three-down player at all times.

MLB2

James-Michael Johnson

3

He is an old-school, throwback middle linebacker that is very good in his keys and run fits, and rarely picks the wrong hole. He does a good job of stacking and shedding, not staying blocked for long periods of time. Like Maualuga, he needs some improvement in his pass coverage skills, has the athleticism needed, but proper coaching and time spent in the film room will improve his instincts and awareness. His work ethic tells me that this will not be a problem, and will be one of my key special teams players while he develops.

SLB2

Koa Misi

1

Misi does nothing exceptional, but everything pretty good. He has great power in his bull rush when rushing the passer, and has the athletic ability and instincts to play in coverage as well. Not a fish out of water when asked to play zone, and can match up with some running backs and tight ends. He can play defensive end in a 4-3, and both inside and out in a 3-4 scheme. An intelligent player, Misi will also help in the film and weight rooms, and can be counted on if put into a larger role.

WLB2

Larry Grant

1

Grant doesn’t get noticed much because of the two studs playing in front of him, but he is everything you want in a backup linebacker. No real weakness, has some pass rush ability, and does a good job in his run fits as well. Another leadership type, pushing everyone to be their best. His leap has been aided by proper coaching and time with the right group of guys, and I feel his arrow will only continue to point upward.

Brian Rolle

0.5

I thought Rolle played pretty well considering the amount of playing time he had to undertake in his rookie year. In his defense, he was at times playing in a very unconventional defense, which placed a lot of emphasis on the linebackers compensating for other players playing in unusual alignments. He provides good depth, and he can play special teams as well.

Defensive End and Tackle Depth Chart

Booher has a lot of admiration for Jared Odrick’s potential. Photo by Penn State Live.

Starting Position

Role (optional)

Name

Value

Commentary (Why you picked the player: specific skills and talents you like, potential upside, and fit within the system)

LDE1

Cameron Wake

8

An absolute beast. The unquestioned example for what everyone should want in a football player. Has never let his situation dictate his desire and performance. He bends the edge like no other, and his bull rush is a thing of beauty. All young guys will look to him, and understand what is needed to succeed at this level. He has dominated while not always having his hand in the dirt, and in my base 4-3 sets, he will be an absolute terror.

RDE1

Nick Perry

6

Perry is a guy who I think will be more effective playing solely as a 4-3 end. He is a physical specimen, and Wake’s presence on the roster is what made me decide to go with Perry as his bookend. He displays good hands and at times shows he can toss opposing linemen. He also plays with good awareness and is not easily fooled by screens. He has the athletic ability to drop into coverage as well. In my 3-4 looks, he is versatile enough to be a stand-up outside linebacker. He does a good job setting the edge, and is tough to move for a guy not close to 300 pounds.

DT1

Linval Joseph

3

Another physical specimen. The Giants have yet to get the best out of this guy, although injuries have been one of the reasons why. With Wake garnering all attention, Joseph’s ability to get into the backfield, as well as be tough to block with just one player causes major problems for the opposing line. Incredibly strong, I have no problem having him inside in 4-3 looks, or as a five-technique in 3-4 looks. Joseph also has a knack for knocking down passes when his rush won’t get there.

DT2

Jared Odrick

3

Odrick is an absolute steal for his value, and has the versatility to play anywhere on the defensive line. His strength and athleticism are a tough match up for most guards. As w/ Joseph, inside in a 4-3 look, outside in a 3-4 look. Doesn’t stay blocked, and his motor never stops. Excellent at setting the edge when called upon. A great leader, very intelligent, and a fantastic teammate.

RDE2

Olivier Vernon

1.5

His strength is much higher for someone who has his size, and his pass rushing skills are very good for a player with his limited reps. Superb against the run, he is very tough to move. Another player who will only benefit from being alongside Cam Wake, he is a great mold of clay to begin with. Will be exceptional on special teams, and will provide plenty of key snaps in situational defenses as his development progresses.

NT

Terrence Cody

1

For my 3-4 fronts, Cody will perfectly play the role at the nose. Cody’s only concern is keeping his effectiveness as his snap count gets high, but with the 30 fronts only being used depending on the opponent, I can keep him fresh for late in the season and into the postseason. He can also be a rotational player in the middle in some of our 4-3 looks. The typical trash can full of dirt, when he doesn’t want to be moved, you’re simply not moving him. His size and strength help to free up other linemen to do their thing. Having been coached by NIck Saban, and now spending a few years with the Ravens, he will also be a key asset in the film and meeting rooms.

LDE2

Marcus Benard

0.5

Benard is very good for his size, and has a versatile skill set. He has natural pass rush ability, and play in multiple spots in different defensive looks. Has the dedication and leadership skills I covet in backup players. Continued improvement from coaching, technique, and weight room will only go to help him mature into a more complete player. Another player who will help ensure a strong ST unit.

Final Special Teams Roster

Kicker and Punter Depth Chart

Starters

Name

Value

Commentary (Why did you choose the player for special teams and what Role (optional) will he play?)

K1

Alex Henery

2

His 57-yard field goal in college shows his leg strength, and he showed during his rookie year that he is not shy in big moments. His field goal percentage was exceptional and illustrated that his leg is not his only asset.

P1

Zoltan Mesko

1.5

Mesko has a very good leg, and his punt average reflected accordingly. He does a pretty good job placing the ball inside the 20, as evidenced by his 43 punts that accomplished this in his two years. Nine more inside the 10 show his ability to be an effective coffin-corner punter as well.

Kick Coverage Team

Name

Commentary (Why did you choose the player for special teams and what Role (optional) will he play?)

Josh Norman

L1

Demario Davis

L2

George Iloka

L3

Larry Grant

L4

Koa Misi

L5

Alex Henery

K

James-Michael Johnson

R5

Olivier Vernon

R4

Reshad Jones

R3

Marcus Benard

R2

Anthony Gaitor

R1

Punt Coverage Team

Role (optional)

Name

Commentary (Why did you choose the player for special teams and what Role (optional) will he play?)

Gunner(SE1)

Anthony Gaitor

Gunner(SE2)

George Iloka

LT

Nate Garner

LG

Jah Reid

LS

Ben Jones

RG

Clint Boling

RT

Lydon Murtha

PP

James Casey

Has good skills in running, passing, and handling the football, a very viable option for all punt fake options.

Finally someone taking Lindval Joseph.. Jerry Reece thinks pound for pound he’s one of the strongest guys in the NFL. Also Da’Rell Scott. I think between Bradshaw Wilson and Scott the Giants could have the 3 headed rushing attack they did in 2008. I love this project you guys are doing. I always wished I had great football knowledge like you guys have. Just brilliant. If you wanted you could make this the ultimate game of fantasy football. Everything and everyone gets to score points. It’s truly amazing Matt. Just fantastic writing. I have learned so much about football. I thought I knew alot as I played 4yrs high school and 4 years college. I was a beast LT 6’4 307 my senior year in HS and 6’4 330 senior year collge. Thank you so much all of you who have contributed so far. Made my day every time a new Email came in about this.

i find the earl thomas at corner pick rather interesting, i think hes fantastic as a FS already(just 2 yrs in) but I like the strategy, corners are expensive, using a good one at 5.5 with versatility in nickel packages to cover TEs or be rovers is prudent

marcel reese for 1.5 is larceny, i also like terrence cody larry grant and ras i dowling for 1 a whole heck of alot, in general i like this emphasis you have on nickel packages and building depth in your secondary thats what the league is today a sub package league

heres my issue and its one i see with a lot of teams: is the direction the league is headed today really one where top money should be spent on the offensive line? Isnt that one of the trends, improved quarterbacks and advancements in passing concepts bring less importance on the offensive line? And is emphasis and money spent on the running game really that pertinent to the way the game is heading today? I expected to see alot of theories on advancements of passing concept and mimicking the type of things we see with Mike McCarthy, Sean Payton and the like. Instead, alot of these teams published are about more traditional running the football, important use of play action, building through concepts such as the zone stretch and building the team through the offensive line etc.

To me the game today is about creating mismatches like this team creator described, but I don’t know if spending on mid round picks to fill the positions is the way to go. There’s a reason those guys fell in the draft. Is 4 on a Greg Little or 3.5 on Lester Jean really better than a 6 on a Demayrius Thomas or 6.5 on Antonio Brown? I just don’t see it at all but this is a trend with alot of these teams.

also as a side note I don’t get the love for Sean Smith espec at 4.5, big physical corner but one who struggles with acceleration and change of direction and who was frankly a below average corner last year and regressed from 2010. And this team is relying on unproven nick perry as really its second pass rusher with not much else on the edges. And Cameron Wake is 30+, if your building a team is that really what you want? Love Wake as a player very underappreciated, but if your going young all the way and looking towards the future why not do it with your primary pass rusher.

None of this is meant to bash this team, it is interesting and the writer clearly put alot of time into it and has a good understanding of the game, I’m just at a bit of a loss with what I’ve seen from many of these teams on the offensive end. i guess I just expected to see alot more Aaron Rodgers-Calvin Johnson-Antonio Brown-Jimmy Graham type passing games with relying on a great QB to overcome weaknesses on the o line(which is what many top offenses are doing today).

I’m sure this will be taken in the spirit of good discussion. You raise excellent points. I will say that there is a bit of trend being spotted that offensive tackle isn’t quite the need position that it was when Michael Lewis wrote his book The Blind Side. As one reader mentioned two days ago with my RSP team, the Saints actually have emphasized guards more than tackles. Ryan Riddle, a former NFL player who writes terrific pieces over at Bleacher Report recently penned an article that made strong-interesting points (even if debatable by some) that the offensive line is not as important as people make it out to be. His point is that teams win with offensive lines that are good enough more than excellent, but they lose without elite skill players.

I don’t have a definitive answer to your point, but thought I’d at least offer a counterpoint for you to think about it. That’s what’s great about this project, having an opportunity to discuss these thoughts. I agree that Marcel Reece is a value. Makes me want to build a West Coast offense and use him as my fullback-slot receiver similar to how I envision Ryan using him. I was just reading about one of the staple “Texas” plays of the WCO and how the fullback and tight end play off each other in their routes and thought immediately of Reece’s value in such an offense – at least from that perspective.